Bags - fold over flaps and chain straps

[LadyWithLapdog]

I’m looking for 2 bags, preferably in the sales.

I’m used to zips. I can’t remember ever having one with a fold over flap. Are they a faff to use? Do they feel secure without a zip at the top?

There’s also lots of big, chunky chains. Either as some trimming to the bag, or as a strap. Are they heavy? I don’t know if I’m expecting people to say that superlight metal has been invented since I last went into a shop, it’s just difficult to gauge online. I wish they came with a description of WEIGHT as well.

I have two Kurt Geiger Kensington bags in the smallest size( without being a micro bag) and therefore can’t get lots in however I find them comfortable to use. I am not sure what a bigger one would be like. I imagine you’d have to consider what the essentials are etc. I don’t find the flap a faff. I have spotted some Kensington’s in TK Maxx in the larger size which might be worth checking out OP.

Thank you. I’m such a fuss pot with bags, I only change them every few years. One main criterion is weight. I’ll have a look at KG.

Heehee. Honey, I’ve shrunk the kids moment.

It really depends on the materials, both of the bag itself and the hardware (leather vs PU, silver vs plastic etc). I quite like a flap on smaller crossbody bags (Mulberry Lily, Coach Crosstown) but without on bigger ones because they're usually bulkier and heavier. Ditto the chain strap, and some chains are more comfortable than others so you really have to try them on. Especially as they're not adjustable so not a one size fits all. Some retailers do state the weight of the bag but unfortunately not all do.

I have the very small Kurt Geiger Kensington- it just about fits my phone, a lipstick, a single key and a very flat coin purse. I really want the next size up but can't justify its purchase. 🙁

@LadyEloise1 check out TK Maxx for the next size up

www.tkmaxx.com/uk/en/women/accessories/handbags/black-leather-kensington-grab-bag/p/11705996

I went to a John Lewis and a Fenwick-type shop. I touched, weighed, flapped open dozens and dozens of bags, in all price ranges. I was left with a feeling of sadness at the futility of those animals lives which are now just squares of leather, some bags too small to hold more than a change of contact lenses.

On a sunnier tone, I now know to stick with what I like, as the fold over design is usually in very rigid bags. The chain embellishments or straps aren’t as heavy as I imagined them.

Thank you @Niftythrifter
I'm in Ireland and since Brexit it's a real faff to order from the UK - customs duties etc.
The Kensington on the TK Maxx website has a Union Jack imprint and I'd prefer the plainer black one.
You are so good to let me know they are sold online at TKMaxx.

Maybe try Ted Baker? I've got a maroon leather flap over bag with magnetic fastening and rose gold and leather chain. The chain is heavy but it's a nicely made bag for not much money.

Also you can buy metal chains from Etsy to use with existing handbags - I've done this with a coach bag and a little phone/purse bag when I didn't like the leather straps that they had already.